Get smooth legs for summer

If your toes need a beauty touch-up you can run out for a pedicure. A manicure is a quick fix for fingernails. But what about legs?

A model walks the red carpet prior to the start of the Formula One Grand Prix of Turkey at the Istanbul Park circuit racetrack in Istanbul, Turkey, Sunday, May 8, 2011. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Spider veins, cellulite, razor bumps and other common concerns aren’t easy to hide during swimsuit and mini-skirt season. For ways to diminish their appearance, we rang up dermatologists Nicole Rogers and Lisa Donofrio.

Cellulite hider

It isn’t fat itself that causes cellulite, Rogers said. The skim dimpling is made by the mesh-like fibrous connections (fibrous septae) that hold fat in place. Exercise can help, but even the fittest among us can have cellulite. So the best way to reduce its appearance, Rogers said, is through simple tissue trauma. The Elixer Laser, used in her office at Old Metairie Dermatology, breaks up fat through radio frequency. “It creates a smoothing appearance and can be used on various parts of the body: thighs, love handles and even in the jowl area.” Rogers said to be wary of over-the-counter products that claim to eliminate cellulite. “Sure, they will take your money, but they don’t work,” she said. Instead opt for a self-tanner to camouflage the problem. Look for one that contains dihydroxyacetone as the active ingredient, such as MicroMist Tanning by Neutrogena. And don’t forget to lather on the sunblock. “Don’t mistake self-tanner for an SPF,” she said. “Instead use self-tanner as a nighttime moisturizer.” For those who prefer gradual color, Rogers recommends Jergens Natural Glow Daily Moisturizer.

Concealed spiders

Both genetics and job requirements can lead to spider veins, those tangled groups of tiny blood vessels visible right under the skin. Standing for long hours can put pressure on the valves and veins. Both Rogers and Donofrio, associate clinical professor at Tulane and Yale universities, recommend compression hose for patients who are often on their feet. “Yes, old ladies use them, but younger people can benefit as well,” Rogers said. Donofrio also recommends elevating the legs when you have the opportunity. “This will keep them from dilating more.” Once spider veins have developed, a typical treatment is to inject Polidocanol, which essentially blanches the vein immediately and dissolves it in a matter of a week or two. Much like cellulite, there is no effective treatment that can be purchased over the counter, but, again, self-tanners can help conceal. For those skeptical of self-tanners, Donofrio recommends trying a spray-on product like Airbrush Legs by Sally Hansen. “It looks natural,” she said.

Razor bumps

Almost everyone who shaves has experienced razor bumps (pseudofolliculitis barbae), whether on the legs, bikini area or both. People with curly and coarse hair are particularly prone. To prevent bumps, Donofrio recommends exfoliating and using proper razor technique. “It’s important to shave in the direction of hair growth, using a sharp razor with multiple blades,” she said. “I like any razor with a triple head and pivoting blade. Keeping the skin moist, and using an emollient shaving cream will help to decrease the trauma.” Billy Jealousy’s Hydroplane Super-Slick Shave Cream contains water-soluble silicone beads, which minimize razor drag. Another option is to use laser hair removal instead of shaving or waxing. It’s effective, but expensive. “It decreases the outer sheath of the hair, making it smaller, finer and less likely to in-grow,” Donofrio said. To treat existing razor bumps, Donofrio recommends an over-the-counter, 1 percent hydrocortisone cream. Rogers suggests Bump and Blemish by ESBA Labs, which treats the bump and brightens the area. ($7.99 and up at esbalabs.com).

Skin prep

Exfoliating your legs once or twice a week helps in the even application and longevity of your sunless tan. Before applying a sunless product, Rogers and Donofrio recommend using a gentle exfoliate that contain micro-beads or sugar. Don’t rub hard. “You are not trying to irritate the skin,” Rogers said. To make your own formula, combine a half cup of brown sugar and a half cup of olive oil. Mix and apply in the shower. Rogers also recommends a lactic-acid lotion, like Amlactin Moisturizing Body Lotion, to keep skin smooth. The product contains alpha-hydroxy acid, which exfoliates and hydrates and works well on tough areas like knees and heels.